Discovering small holes in a wool sweater, coat, or rug can be frustrating. In many cases, the culprit is the webbing clothes moth, also called a clothes moth.
In Gatineau, Val-des-Monts, Cantley, Chelsea, and throughout the Outaouais region, this small moth can go unnoticed for several months before the damage becomes visible.
Contrary to what many believe, adult moths do not eat clothing. It is the larvae that cause the damage by feeding on natural animal fibers.
Like the case-bearing clothes moth, infestations often develop discreetly in closets, basements, storage areas, and rarely used textiles.
How to identify a webbing clothes moth?
The webbing clothes moth is a small, discreet moth with a golden beige colour.
Adult moth
- Length: approximately 5 to 8 mm;
- Wingspan: approximately 10 to 16 mm;
- Uniform golden beige colour;
- Silky or slightly shiny appearance;
- Weak, irregular flight;
- Generally avoids light.
Larva
- Small whitish to cream caterpillar;
- Brownish head;
- A few millimetres in length;
- Often hidden directly in the fibers it consumes.
Unlike the case-bearing clothes moth, the webbing clothes moth larva generally does not carry a mobile case.
Why do clothes moths invade your home?
The larvae are attracted to materials rich in keratin, a protein naturally found in many animal-based fibres.
They may feed on:
- Wool;
- Cashmere;
- Fur;
- Feathers;
- Felt;
- Certain natural-fibre carpets and rugs;
- Clothing made from animal-based fibres.
Infestations are often encouraged by:
- Closets that are rarely used;
- Clothing stored for long periods;
- Basements;
- Attics;
- Dark, undisturbed areas.
The larvae are particularly attracted to textiles containing organic residues such as:
- Pet hair;
- Human hair;
- Skin flakes;
- Perspiration;
- Accumulated dust.
Are webbing clothes moths dangerous?
Webbing clothes moths pose no danger to human health.
Their main impact is economic since they can damage clothing, rugs, blankets, upholstered furniture containing natural fibers, and heritage or collection textiles.
Damage generally appears as small irregular holes, thinned areas, gnawed fibers, and progressive fabric degradation.
Why does the problem keep coming back?
Infestations often persist when some larvae remain hidden in textiles or storage areas.
Factors that contribute to reinfestation include:
- Clothing that is rarely worn;
- Carpets or rugs that are seldom moved;
- Storage areas that are infrequently cleaned;
- Continued presence of natural fibres;
- Accumulation of dust and organic debris.
Because the larvae avoid light and high-traffic areas, they can remain active for long periods without being detected.
What should you do if you have clothes moths?
If you discover damage to your textiles or notice small beige moths in a closet, it is important to act quickly.
We recommend:
- Inspecting all clothing made of wool or other natural fibres;
- Vacuuming closets and storage areas thoroughly;
- Washing clothing whenever possible;
- Having delicate textiles professionally dry cleaned;
- Storing susceptible clothing in airtight containers.
The earlier an infestation is detected, the easier it is to limit the damage.
Our solution
At Maranda Pest Control, our intervention begins with a complete inspection to identify the source of the problem and affected materials.
We provide preventive recommendations tailored to your residence to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Need help with webbing clothes moths?
Whether you are in Gatineau, Val-des-Monts, Cantley, Chelsea, L’Ange-Gardien, or anywhere in the Outaouais region, our team can quickly identify the source of the problem and help you protect your valuable clothing, rugs, and textiles.
Contact Maranda Pest Control for a professional inspection and prevent clothes moths from continuing to damage your belongings.
